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Demonkin #2

Deceptions

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The great State of California has elected themselves a new governor…and he's a vampire!


Many hope it will bring some peace between the humans and vampires. Many don't, which could be the reason someone is trying to kill him. Knowing they can't protect him from supernatural terrorist attacks, the Department of Homeland Security turns to the only people who can, the FBI. More importantly, their only vampire agent.


Ashlyn may be Governor Greer's only hope, but can she keep him alive without starting a war of her own?


When the lines become blurred and it becomes difficult to separate her enemies from her allies, Ashlyn may end up doing just that.

280 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 14, 2012

26 people are currently reading
118 people want to read

About the author

Sean Hayden

21 books212 followers
Born the son of a fire chief, Sean naturally developed a love of playing with fire. His family and friends quickly found other outlets for his destructive creativity. Writing is his latest endeavor.
Always a fan of the macabre, mythical, and magical, Sean found a love of urban fantasy and horror. After writing several novels in this genre, he found, fell in love with, and immersed himself in steampunk. He has always wanted to rewrite history and steampunk gave him that opportunity.
Sean currently lives in Florida as a fiber-optic engineer as well as an author. He was blessed with the two most amazing children he could ever hope for, has met the absolute love of his life, who coincidentally is his partner in everything. His hobbies include grand designs on world domination as well as a starring role in his own television sitcom.

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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
Profile Image for Jen Wylie.
Author 21 books678 followers
April 19, 2012
I'm so excited to see Deceptions finally out! Origins (book 1) was one of my favorite books of last year. Whether you like vampires or not, this is a series to read. Though I loved Origins, I can honestly say I enjoyed Deceptions even more.

The main character Ash isn't exactly a vampire- she's more demon! A spunky, kick ass girl who gets into a lot of trouble, her character is wonderfully written and a real smart ass at times. The humor in this book is wonderful and compliments the action scenes very well. I wish Marcel had been in it more (hint hint)but otherwise I've no complaints. The characters are all unique and well developed. With many twists and turns in the plot you'll be left guessing and the ending, though it ties up well, will leave you wanting more stories about Ash (Just because she's awesome!)
A twisted mix of thrills, humor and just plain awesomesauce, don't hesitate to read this series!
Profile Image for Rayna .
110 reviews2 followers
April 19, 2012
Another amazing story, Mr. Hayden you outdid yourself!
Profile Image for Lisa Hollar.
Author 45 books86 followers
January 11, 2013
This is book two in the Demonkin Series and if you haven't read the first I suggest you start with that. Like Origins, the first in the series, Sean Hayden pulled me in from page one. I began reading this the day after I finished Origins and I was up until nearly 5 in the morning finishing it. I couldn't go to bed not knowing what happens.

Deceptions picks up where Origins left off and Ash and her partner, Thompson, are being sent to California to protect the new Governor. A Vampire. Someone is trying to kill him and the Department of Homeland Security believes that it is another vampire. While you would think that the vampire community would be pleased with one of their own being elected to such a high office, this isn't the case. Vampires have rules and it seems the Governor has stepped on a lot of toes.

Ashlyn, not knowing many of the vampire rules herself, manages to break a lot of them as well. As her list of enemies climbs, so does the casualty rate. It becomes clear that someone has an agenda and not only is killing the governor on the list, but so is killing Ashlyn. The surprise twist at the end that reveals who is behind the attacks took me by surprise.

Sean Hayden stepps this book up a notch, adding a little spice to the story. Ashlyn explores her sexuality and some of the scenes are a bit steamy.

I have heard that he is working on a 3rd incarnation and the ending sets it up to be a wild ride. I can hardly wait. Highly recommend this. A must read.
Profile Image for GothicMom'S Reviewers.
114 reviews1 follower
July 25, 2017
Seeing as how the great citizens did vote Arnold Schwarqenager for governor of their lovely state, it really isn't that far a stretch to believe they would also elect a vampire. Though electing the terminator was a lot less detrimental to their health than Governor Greer, a very ancient vampire. And while the humans may have been eager to have him in a ruling position over them, the vampires may not share those feelings. A fact made clear after several attempts on his life. Since human guards and agents alike seem to have quite a it of a hard time staying alive while attempting to protect him, who better to call in than the one agent they have that seems practically indestructible? Problem with that is by the end of things, Ashlyn may be more than ready to either let the would-be assassins have at him, or just do the job herself.

Ashlyn's life has been in a huge upheaval ever since losing her aunt. Not only has she been forced out into a world she knows virtually nothing about, but she is still struggling to find exactly what she is. She seems to stand out in a whole new vampire classification all on her own and been named the Verminator, as she is a predator of predators. Not sure how she truly feels about being an FBI agent she continues on as one since she really doesn't know anything else, nor anyone, besides Marcel; who insists Ashlyn learn vampire etiquette before she gets herself killed from sheer ignorance of their world. Having already lost one partner, Ashlyn is bound and determined not to lose another. But with this assignment that is a task that seems like mission impossible.

Ashlyn also meets a couple her relatives, one in which shows her a glimpse into the past and introduces her, so to speak, to dear old dad. Not sure if what she has seen is reality, Ashlyn is more than happy to live in the land of denial. Until she another rather unfriendly character that calls her 'cousin', and there are quite a few resemblances that she cannot overlook.

Fast paced action from beginning to end, and a surprising conclusion that will have readers eyes bucking out of their heads. Usually in most mysteries, the reader comes to the conclusion long before the hero/heroine, not the case here. The realization hits right at the same moment it does for Ashlyn. Full of violence, mayhem, more than a little comic relief and a tear jerking end, all true vampire lovers will gladly sink their fangs into this one and latch on until they have drained every last word dry. Deceptions and the Demonkin series as a whole is a true must read.
Profile Image for Tina.
11 reviews1 follower
January 21, 2018
Loved it

Very good book, some was a little unbelievable even for fantasy but I greatly enjoyed it. I can't wait to read the rest.
Profile Image for Steven Jr..
Author 39 books5 followers
July 20, 2019
Even better

Better than the first is an understatement. Ashlyn becomes more real with every chapter. Can't wait to read the next one.
Profile Image for April Hollingworth.
Author 17 books32 followers
October 12, 2014
Review Courtesy of April Hollingworth

This is the second book in the remarkable Demonkin series. Ashley is a fabulous kick ass heroine. I have to admit I love her smart mouth that she just can’t control, and the fact that even though she is dangerous she is also extremely caring for those that get close to her, and will do anything to protect them, even if it means endangering her own life to do so. In saying that, she does know that her fabulous partner Thompson also has her back and so does the divinely gorgeous Marcel. I loved this book and couldn’t put it down. I was also beyond delighted when I found out there will be another book in the series, and I can’t wait to read it.

Opening Scene:

Asmodeus brought his taloned fist down on the armrest of his throne of bones so hard the enchantments holding it together broke.

The Review:

With a vampire as the new governor of the Great state of California, many are hoping that peace between the humans and vampires will be realized. There are though many who are not happy with this situation, not all of them are human, and someone has already tried to kill him. Knowing they can’t protect him from supernatural terrorist attacks, the Department of Homeland Security turns to the FBI and their only vampire agent. Ashley is Governor Greer’s only hope. Soon it becomes difficult to separate friend from foe without starting a war.

Notable scene:

“I’m sure you’re well aware, Ashlyn, the Great State of California elected themselves a governor who just so happens to be a vampire,” he began. I actually wasn’t aware of it, but I nodded as if I paid attention to the news. I couldn’t believe it. More so, I couldn’t believe nobody found a law to keep him out of office. “The incumbent governor maintained his role while they battled the legalities of it in court, but the Supreme Court ruled in the vampire’s favor last week. He takes his oath of office on Monday.”
“Exactly what does a local election have to do with the Department of Homeland Security?” I didn’t see the connection and sat there confused.
“The election doesn’t, but acts of terrorism do. There have been several attempts to destroy the elected governor.” I noticed his use of the word destroy rather than kill. “He came out unscathed, but three state troopers assigned to his Executive Services detail didn’t. We don’t know who planned the attacks, but they have to stop. We need you to find our terrorists and stop them.”
“Why me?” I had a feeling I already knew the answer. “We believe the attacks have been orchestrated and carried out by vampires.”
I wasn’t surprised by his revelation. I turned to the Deputy Director and he nodded once letting me know he’d already given his consent to the joint operation. I gave an inaudible sigh and turned back towards Vetters.
“I’d be more than happy to help, Mr. Vetters,” I lied. If they kept giving me all this practice lying, I expected to get pretty good at it. “Does this vampire governor have a name?”
“David Greer.”

FTC Advisory: Angela McPherson provided me with a copy of Deceptions by Sean Hayden. Published through Untold Press. Kindle Edition. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review.
Profile Image for T.A. Moorman.
Author 25 books628 followers
November 8, 2014
This review and more can be seen at http://gothicmoms.blogspot.com/

Seeing as how the great citizens did vote Arnold Schwarqenager for governor of their lovely state, it really isn't that far a stretch to believe they would also elect a vampire. Though electing the terminator was a lot less detrimental to their health than Governor Greer, a very ancient vampire. And while the humans may have been eager to have him in a ruling position over them, the vampires may not share those feelings. A fact made clear after several attempts on his life. Since human guards and agents alike seem to have quite a it of a hard time staying alive while attempting to protect him, who better to call in than the one agent they have that seems practically indestructible? Problem with that is by the end of things, Ashlyn may be more than ready to either let the would-be assassins have at him, or just do the job herself.

Ashlyn's life has been in a huge upheaval ever since losing her aunt. Not only has she been forced out into a world she knows virtually nothing about, but she is still struggling to find exactly what she is. She seems to stand out in a whole new vampire classification all on her own and been named the Verminator, as she is a predator of predators. Not sure how she truly feels about being an FBI agent she continues on as one since she really doesn't know anything else, nor anyone, besides Marcel; who insists Ashlyn learn vampire etiquette before she gets herself killed from sheer ignorance of their world. Having already lost one partner, Ashlyn is bound and determined not to lose another. But with this assignment that is a task that seems like mission impossible.

Ashlyn also meets a couple her relatives, one in which shows her a glimpse into the past and introduces her, so to speak, to dear old dad. Not sure if what she has seen is reality, Ashlyn is more than happy to live in the land of denial. Until she another rather unfriendly character that calls her 'cousin', and there are quite a few resemblances that she cannot overlook.

Fast paced action from beginning to end, and a surprising conclusion that will have readers eyes bucking out of their heads. Usually in most mysteries, the reader comes to the conclusion long before the hero/heroine, not the case here. The realization hits right at the same moment it does for Ashlyn. Full of violence, mayhem, more than a little comic relief and a tear jerking end, all true vampire lovers will gladly sink their fangs into this one and latch on until they have drained every last word dry. Deceptions and the Demonkin series as a whole is a true must read.
Profile Image for VampireNovelFan.
426 reviews228 followers
October 10, 2012
I was hoping for more, but I'll read the next one

When you've got a book that's a borderline novella, with so little page time the pressure is on to make an impact. I felt like Origins accomplished that. This one? Not so much.

Ashlyn is settling into her role as an FBI agent, and a new case has fallen into her lap. She has to protect the State of California's new and very first vampire governor. Though many hope this fosters better relations between humans and vampires, others are out for his blood. But they'll get it over Ashlyn's dead demon body...with a sprinkle of vampire thrown in. That might not be too far off as her naivety puts her in deeper water than ever.

Attempts to be edgy sort of diminished the value of the series for me. I really enjoyed the first Origins book, but Deceptions felt like a completely different series, and Ashlyn a completely different character. I guess she's growing up. She now has to learn the ways of the vampire world. I would have preferred more of that and less focus on her honeymooning with her new

Elves are introduced in the prior novel, but they barely receive a mention in this one which was a let down. Demon development was also few and far in between. I was really looking forward to learning about Ashlyn's heritage. We get a glimpse into her power but it just wasn't enough. It all led to an ending that I predicted a little too early, enough so that the book started to drag for me towards the end, but it wasn't too unbearable.

While I didn't enjoy it as much as the first, there is still potential there, so I will give book 3 a try. The books are short, they're free (on Amazon Prime), and there's a chance the plot could pick up and grab me as well as the first book did.

*Review also posted to Amazon.
Profile Image for Michele Collins.
73 reviews19 followers
August 2, 2012
Book Title: Deceptions
Author: Sean Hayden
Publisher: Echelon Press Publishing
ISBN: 9781590808702
Reviewed by Michele Tater for the Couch Tater Review

“I hate the man who is double-mined, kind in words, but a foe in his conduct.” ~Palladas

She’s back...Ashlyn that is. Everyone’s favorite FBI agent, well it should be everyone’s favorite. Her assignment this time is to act as a body guard to a vampire who just happens to be the Governor of California who also happens to be a vampire. In California what can happen, does happen. Protecting someone who seems to have a huge target on his forehead is no easy task on your body or your wardrobe. For Ashlyn it is all in a day work. However strange things are happening to the vampire leaders in the area. It is just a coincidence or is someone out to get rid of them for personal gain? Why does Ashlyn always have to be in the middle of everything? Can she survive again or is this fight just to much for a young vampire/demon to bare? Questions only answered if you read the book!

Finally, we are graced with another book about Ashlyn and her now adventures of vampire sitting. She really is growing into her person in her professional life as well as her personal life. Yes, she develops a “life” which causes her great joys and more troubles. I really like this character, if you haven’t already guessed. She has a sense of humor, that keeps me laughing, along with a streak of either bravery or stubbornness that usually gets her into some major trouble. Never a dull moment with this series. FYI you learn more about Ashlyn’s father, interesting. I can’t say enough about this author--when he puts his stories to print he never disappoints. There I said it, now Mr. Hayden, get back to writing book number three, please.
Profile Image for Erin.
107 reviews8 followers
August 27, 2012
While I enjoyed this book (and the first, Origins) more than several of the books I've read most recently, I dislike the author's writing style in regards to Ashlyn's inner monologue. I know she's only 17-18 in the books, but some of the things she says drove me nuts. For example, any time something arouses her in some way (which happens pretty frequently) she makes some comment about places she'd rather not mention getting all warm. Additionally, I felt like the author really likes pointing out that Ashlyn or her partner, Vic, is naked or wearing minimal clothing when sleeping. I'm not a prude, I just didn't feel like a lot of this was necessary to the story.

I did really like the plot as well as the prologue and epilogue which further explained the side plot. I would love to know more about the demons and what they're doing to fix their problem. I also enjoyed the twist in the ending. I did figure it out earlier than the characters, but I didn't feel that detracted from the book.
Profile Image for J.A. Campbell.
Author 73 books223 followers
October 27, 2014
Deceptions by Sean Hayden is the second book in the adult urban fantasy Demonkin series. If you haven’t read Origins, do so. Now. I’m waiting...

Ashlyn works for the FBI. She’s also a vampire. The only vampire who works for the FBI. She’s also got secrets of her own. She can only feed off of supernatural blood, so the humans are safe, but is the vampire she’s been tasked to guard?

When California elects the first vampire governor (it would have to be California) Ashlyn and her werelion partner are sent to guard him from those who want him dead. The question is, who exactly is it who wants him dead? And why are other powerful vampires being targeted.

Part mystery, part adventure, part romance, this adult urban fantasy has something for every vampire lover out there. Oh, and you know, werelions, demons, and other surprises. I loved the first book and I think the second was even better. It also hints at bigger problems in Ashlyn’s future and I can’t wait for the third to come out.
Profile Image for Doris.
410 reviews7 followers
October 22, 2014
*I was provided a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.

Deceptions is the second installment in the Demonkin Series- and we are not disappointed!!!
I hope that you have all read book one, and are ready to get your socks blown off!!
Deceptions is unlike any other "demon" book you will read. Sean Hayden has given us Ash, a character that refuses to let her life path be written by genealogy. In this book, we learn a bit more of her father and just how important it is to her to have a life beyond working for the FBI sitting for Vampires.
I love the way that Ash has true moxie and she has such a way of making humor out of what is going on around her, she has some sass in there!!
You will be driven to read as fast as you can once you start, Deceptions is very addictive!!
I can't wait until I get my hands on book 3!!!
~Dowie
Profile Image for Scott.
Author 33 books30 followers
August 20, 2012
I liked DECEPTIONS, the followup to ORIGINS (Demonkin series) by Sean Hayden quite a bit. Not quite as much as ORIGINS or Hayden's young adult novel, MY SOUL TO KEEP. But I really enjoyed the main character, who gives us a little different take on the usual protagonist from this genre of fiction. Plus, Hayden's brand of somewhat off-beat humor shines through loud and clear.

I mark it down slightly because I could see the solution coming from early on, and just because, subjectively, I couldn't rank it quite as high as those other two novels. But I found it to be well written and well plotted, and a joy to read.
Profile Image for Bobbi.
731 reviews23 followers
October 18, 2014
Ash (Not quite sure what she is yet) and Thompson (Werelion) are very comical at times and they work very well together. Marcel (Vampire) had his moments for the brief time he was there. Wasn't sure what to make of the Governor until later and found out I didn't like him much. This author did a great job making all of the characters feel real and believable.

This was a different read for sure. One that I quite enjoyed. It puts a different look on the paranormal world.

I received this book from Market Ing. for an honest review.
Profile Image for lov2laf.
714 reviews1,105 followers
March 24, 2017
Great read. I did prefer the 1st book to Deceptions but this is still very good and worth the read. There's quite a bit of action in this one and it takes place in Sacramento which resonated with me. I'm looking forward to a 3rd book in the series.
633 reviews7 followers
June 22, 2016
Outstanding tale

I loved the characters and the whole story about the supernatural. I don't usually like vampires but fell in love with the demon half bred. I finished this series in two days and can't wait to find out what happens next....
Profile Image for Denise.
Author 5 books29 followers
August 27, 2012
4.5 stars! Review to come on my blog.
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